Crispy Broccoli & Cheese Nuggets – Cheesy, Crunchy, and Irresistible

Crispy Broccoli & Cheese Nuggets are a fun, flavorful way to enjoy vegetables. Packed with tender broccoli, gooey melted cheese, and a crunchy coating, these bite-sized nuggets are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or kid-friendly side dish. They’re easy to make, baked or air-fried for a lighter option, and sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Veggie-Packed Goodness – A delicious way to get in extra greens.
Cheesy Comfort – Gooey cheese pairs perfectly with crisp broccoli.
Light & Crunchy – Bake or air-fry for a golden, crispy finish without excess oil.
Great for All Ages – A fun finger food for parties, snacks, or lunchboxes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets (steamed and finely chopped)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli
   Steam broccoli until tender, then chop finely. Allow to cool slightly.
2. Mix the Filling
   In a bowl, combine chopped broccoli, cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
3. Shape the Nuggets
   Form the mixture into small nugget shapes. Roll lightly in extra breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating.
4. Cook the Nuggets
   • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place nuggets on a lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Arrange nuggets in a single layer, spray with oil, and cook for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.
5. Serve
   Enjoy hot, paired with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information

Calories: ~150
Protein: 7g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugar: 1g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Drain Excess Moisture – Squeeze cooked broccoli gently to remove extra water for better texture.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavors.
• Serve Fresh – Best enjoyed hot when the cheese is melty and the coating is crisp.

Why This Recipe Works

Combining tender broccoli with gooey cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb shell makes these nuggets both wholesome and satisfying. Baking or air-frying keeps them light while preserving the irresistible crispiness that makes finger foods so fun.

Crispy Broccoli & Cheese Nuggets are an easy, delicious way to turn simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing snack or side. They’re cheesy, crunchy, and packed with flavor — perfect for both kids and adults.